Arsenal set to SPLASH OUT with £22m bid to beat Liverpool to Lyon star Alexandre Lacazette

ARSENAL are ready to step up their efforts to beat Liverpool to Alexandre Lacazette, according to reports.

The Lyon striker has topped the scoring charts in Ligue 1 this season and has caught the eye of both Premier League clubs.

Brendan Rodgers admitted last week that he needs a top-level striker that he can count on every week and Lacazette would certainly fit the bill after plundering 26 goals so far this term.

I'm afraid, they need a top, top quality striker to win this league again.

Thierry Henry

But reports in Italy suggest that it is Arsene Wenger who is most keen to bring the 23-year-old to England.

Lyon insist they will hold onto Lacazette as they prepare to move into a new stadium next season, but it is claimed that Wenger is ready to splurge to get his man.

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Alexandre Lacazette tops the goalscoring charts in France

After the Gunners could only manage a 0-0 draw with Chelsea over the weekend despite creating numerous chances Thierry Henry told Sky Sports: "I think they need to buy four players - they need that spine.

"They need a goalkeeper, they still need a centre back, they still need a holding midfielder and, I'm afraid, they need a top, top quality striker to win this league again."